Error state

Under ReviewUpdated May 12, 2026

Description

An error state indicates there is data but it cannot be shown to the user. It can occur in any data container. For example, a dashboard, table, tile, sidebar, or full page.

Use an error page in the following situations:

The user does not have permission to view the data.
Data is not sent from a related system because of problems with the system.
Configuration is needed to access the data.
The action is not supported. For example, the user tries to upload an unsupported file type.

Figma library

Anatomy

Anatomy

Breakpoints

Choose the most suitable layout based on screen size.

320-767px

768-1023px

1024px +

320-767px

768-1023px

Dos and don'ts

Do - Actionable next step

Do - Direct, plain language

Do - Hierarchy of actions

Resources

Nielsen Norman Group: Error Message Guidelines

Writing for error states

Heading

Create a short, scannable heading that summarizes the error
Use sentence case
Do not use punctuation unless it's a question

Paragraph

Clearly describe the error and how to correct it
Learn how to write error messages

Content examples

Use case	Example messages
The user does not have permission to view the data.	Subscription expiredTo get connected again:Renew your subscriptionUpdate your billing detailsCome back to this page and connect
	Page not availableYou need permission to view employee details.Ask your administrator for access.
Data is not sent from a related system because of problems with the system.	Service not availableUnable to connect to the Expenses service.Retry to connectContact Customer Support
	Page not foundThere are a few possible reasons:The URL is spelled incorrectlyThe URL has changed or is brokenThe page no longer existsThe page has moved or been redirectedCheck the URL and try again.
	Cannot complete your requestThere are a few things you can do:Reload the previous pageCheck your internet connectionReview your security settings
Configuration is needed to access the data.	Cannot show invoices right nowYou are offline.Connect to the internet to access your customer invoices.
	Cannot connect to your bankThe password on your bank account might have changed. Check your password and log in.
The action is not supported. For example, the user tries to upload an unsupported file type.	Cannot upload your sales ordersMake sure the files meet the following requirements:File size must be smaller than {variable=maximumSize}File type must be {variable=fileTypes} Number of files to upload must be maximum {variable=number}

Accessibility requirements

Description. Provide a clear description of the error, what caused it, and how it can be fixed.

Provide a clear description of the error, what caused it, and how it can be fixed.

Testing

We tested the error page using the following software.

Computer

Operating System	Version
MacOS Monterey	12.6.2
---	---
Safari	15.6.1
Chrome	105.0.5195.102

Assistive technology

Type	Name
Screen reader	VoiceOver (Mac)
Screen reader	NVDA (Windows)
Speech recognition	Voice Control (Mac)

Resources

Date	Change
September 2024	Copied information from Product design system.
January 2025	Updated "footer" to feature a button instead of links.